Amalaki, amla or the Indian gooseberry (lat. Emblica officinalis) is one of the most well-known plants of traditional ayurvedi medicine.
The yellow-green fruits of the trees which can grow as tall as 18 meters have been used by peoples in India for over 5000 years as one of the most powerful natural medicines for strengthening the immune system and rejuvenating the body.
According to Ayurveda, amalaki contains five of the six basic flavors: sour, sweet, bitter, spicy and astringent. These characteristics make it a unique ingredient, the only such one in the world.
In India it is considered a sacred plant because the combination of its ingredients balances all three doshas.
It’s appropriate during all seasons of the year, in all weather conditions and for all body types.
Modern medicine also recognized this unique and important ayurvedic medicine and over a hundred international studies have been conducted so far.
They discovered amalaki cleanses, protects, and rejuvenates the entire body.
One amalaki equals 20 oranges
Scientific studies have shown that amalaki is one of the best sources of antioxidants in the word.
100 grams of the fresh fruit contain between 470 and 680 mg of natural and pure vitamin C.
In comparison, amalaki juice contains 20 times more of this important vitamin than does orange juice.
Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant, protects us from the effects of free radicals and is important for the bones, immune system and blood vessels and it stimulates the production and functioning of leukocytes.
Amalaki is rich in other important ingredients as well – flavonoids, tannins, polyphenolics and minerals and it is a powerful natural way to fight all types of infections.
It is used to alleviate respiratory infections, coughs, sore throats and other respiratory problems, including bronchitis and asthma.
It helps the liver dispose of toxins
The regular use of amalaki helps cleanse the body of toxins due to the high levels of tannin and flavonoids, bile acid and antioxidants which it contains.
A study published in the magazine “Phytotherapy Research” revealed that amalaki can protect the liver from the negative effects of medications.
It was proven particularly effective in neutralizing the effects of medications used in the treatment of tuberculosis, but also other synthetic drugs which burden the liver on a daily basis.
Prevents carcinomas and helps in their treatment
A Japanese study revealed that amalaki extract prevents the growth of carcinogenic cells in the organism.
This fruit, studies show, contains numerous elements which strengthen the immune system and help those who use it not only in preventing cancer but also in the actual treatment of the disease.
Antioxidants help reduce infections and cellular damage, which is the first step in the emergence of cancer and the creation of malignant cells in the organism.
Scientists at the University of Pittsburgh researching pancreatic cancer discovered that amalaki, in combination with other ingredients in the well-known, ancient Ayurvedic mixture triphala, can reduce the growth of tumors on this organ.
Studies conducted on mice have shown that the size of tumors in mice, which used this mixture was reduced by 50%.
The scientists are waiting for further studies so that this type of cancer, one of the most aggressive, can be stopped in time.
Natural medicine for the pancreas and diabetes
Amalaki has been shown to be a very effective natural means of treating pancreatic infections, pancreatitis.
It relieves pain and swelling and helps improve the functioning of the pancreas.
Regular use of amalaki helps in insulin secretion and lowers blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.
It is rich in chromium, which is especially important in type 2 diabetes.
Studies have confirmed that 3 grams of Amalaki powder are more effective in fighting diabetes in individuals than regular diabetes medicine.
Alleviating stomach problems
Traditionally, amalaki is used in Indian folk medicine to alleviate stomach problems.
It is used to stop diarrhea, vomiting, cramps and bloating.
It reduces the feeling of acidity and relieves heartburn.
A study from 2010 found that amalaki extract protects against diarrhea, a condition in which infection causes mushy, slimy stool, accompanied by abdominal pain and cramps.
Because of its natural activity, it has a beneficial effect on the entire digestive system.
For prettier skin, hair and nails
Amalaki is a natural ingredient which rejuvenates the entire organism.
Aside from protecting the organs from free radicals and oxidative damage, it also has a beneficial effect on tissue rejuvenation.
It is found in numerous beauty products such as shampoos, lotions and oils.
It nourishes the scalp and prevents hair loss. It nourishes the roots and stimulates the grown of hair.
All over the world it is used as a hair mask and a natural conditioner. It prevents the appearance of gray hair and is an effective anti-dandruff treatment.
It promotes healing and accelerates the cellular renewal of the skin.
It is an effective tool for all types of inflammation of the skin and skin problem areas.
It is used as a natural treatment for acne, pimples and rashes on sensitive skin. It strengthens nails and teeth.
Hair mask stimulating growth and nourishing hair
Make a nourishing hair mask which will stimulate growth and hydrate locks, protecting hair from split ends and guaranteeing it is shiny and soft.
Mix amalaki powder with a little warm water until you get a paste, that is, a hair mask.
Let it sit for an hour.
Then place it on your scalp and massage it into your skin using soft, circular motions.
Let it stay on your hair for between 30 minutes and an hour, then rinse.
Medicinal characteristics of the amalaki fruit
- protects the liver
- lowers cholesterol
- cleanses and rejuvenates the body
- strengthens the immune system
- stops inflammation
- protects against cancer
- rejuvenates the skin
- treats the pancreas
- lowers blood sugar
- relieves indigestion and heartburn
- stimulates the growth of hair and nails
- natural protection against viruses, bacteria and fungi
Where can you buy it?
The Ayurvedic Amalaki powder can be found in the Alternative webshop.
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